What's happened
On December 5, 2025, the US released a 33-page National Security Strategy (NSS) outlining a major shift in foreign policy. It prioritizes American dominance in the Western Hemisphere, military strength in the Indo-Pacific, and adopts a critical stance on Europe’s future, warning of "civilizational erasure" due to migration and political trends. The strategy downplays ideological promotion abroad, focusing on pragmatic trade and alliances, and signals a distancing from traditional European partnerships.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Reorientation
The 2025 National Security Strategy signals a profound shift in US foreign policy, moving away from ideological leadership toward pragmatic, interest-driven engagement. The document's stark warnings about Europe — describing it as facing "civilizational erasure" due to migration, declining birthrates, and political instability — reveal a US administration increasingly skeptical of traditional Western alliances.
Europe as a Battleground for Identity
The NSS adopts language resonant with far-right European narratives, including references to the "Great Replacement" theory, suggesting a demographic and cultural threat to Europe’s identity. This alignment with nationalist parties and criticism of EU policies on migration and free speech regulation indicate a US strategy to influence European politics by supporting "patriotic" parties that align with American interests.
Prioritizing the Western Hemisphere and Indo-Pacific
The strategy revives the Monroe Doctrine, emphasizing US dominance in the Americas, with increased military presence to combat migration and drug trafficking. In Asia, it focuses on deterring China, particularly regarding Taiwan, by bolstering military capabilities and alliances, while downplaying ideological competition.
Implications and Forecast
This approach will likely deepen transatlantic tensions, as European leaders reject US interference and question the reliability of the alliance. The US pivot to the Western Hemisphere and Indo-Pacific may reduce its engagement in Europe, potentially weakening NATO cohesion. The embrace of nationalist rhetoric risks emboldening far-right movements, increasing political polarization within Europe and the US.
Impact on Readers
For global citizens, this strategy signals a more transactional and less value-driven US foreign policy, with potential consequences for migration, trade, and security alliances. Europeans may face increased pressure to align with US policy preferences or risk diminished support. Americans can expect a focus on hemispheric security and economic interests over ideological commitments abroad.
What the papers say
The New York Times' Thomas L. Friedman highlights the unprecedented nature of the NSS's critique of Europe, noting its focus on internal cultural and political struggles rather than traditional geopolitical rivals like Russia and China. Katrin Bennhold (New York Times) reports on European outrage and the quiet response from far-right parties, emphasizing the tension between "America First" and national priorities in Europe. The Independent and Al Jazeera detail the NSS's alignment with far-right narratives, including the "Great Replacement" theory, and the US administration's intent to support nationalist parties in Europe. Reuters and Politico provide insights into the NSS's broader strategic shifts, including the revival of the Monroe Doctrine and a pragmatic approach to China and Russia. The NY Post and Sky News underscore the document's criticism of European regulatory policies and migration, framing it as a call for Europe to regain "civilizational self-confidence." The New Arab and Al Jazeera also discuss the NSS's reduced focus on the Middle East and Africa, signaling a shift toward economic partnerships and limited military commitments. These varied perspectives illustrate the NSS's controversial stance, its geopolitical recalibrations, and the mixed reactions it has provoked across the Atlantic.
How we got here
The Trump administration's 2025 National Security Strategy marks a sharp departure from previous US foreign policy, emphasizing 'America First' pragmatism. It critiques Europe’s immigration policies and political trajectory, while prioritizing US influence in the Western Hemisphere and Indo-Pacific. This reflects growing geopolitical tensions with China and Russia, and a reassessment of longstanding alliances.
Go deeper
- What are the main criticisms of Europe in the US National Security Strategy?
- How is the US shifting its foreign policy priorities in 2025?
- What impact will this strategy have on US-European relations?
Common question
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What Does the US Say About Europe's Future in Its Security Strategy?
The latest US national security strategy signals a significant shift in how America views Europe’s role on the global stage. With criticisms of EU policies and warnings about Europe's future decline, many are wondering what this means for European stability and alliances. Below, we explore key questions about US-Europe relations, future alliances, and what Europeans can do to maintain their influence.
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What Does the US Say About Europe's Future in Its Security Strategy?
Recent US security strategies suggest a significant shift in how Europe is viewed on the global stage. With criticisms of EU policies and warnings of potential decline, many are wondering what this means for Europe's future. How does the US see Europe's role in global security, and what challenges lie ahead? Below, we explore key questions about US-Europe relations, Europe's prospects, and the broader geopolitical landscape.
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What is the US's new foreign policy strategy and how does it impact Europe?
In December 2025, the US unveiled a major shift in its foreign policy, emphasizing American dominance, critiquing Europe, and adopting a pragmatic approach toward China. This new strategy raises questions about the future of US alliances, Europe's role, and global power dynamics. Below, we explore the key aspects of this shift and what it means for the world.
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How Are Global Power Shifts Changing the World?
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What Does the US Criticize About Europe in 2025?
In 2025, the US has shifted its foreign policy focus, openly criticizing Europe for its demographic and strategic challenges. The new National Security Strategy highlights concerns over Europe's future stability and its role on the global stage. Curious about what exactly the US is criticizing and how Europe might respond? Below, we explore the key issues shaping Europe's future in a changing world.
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Why is the US warning Europe about 'civilizational erasure'?
In December 2025, the US released a stark National Security Strategy warning Europe about potential 'civilizational erasure.' This raises questions about what the US sees as threats to Europe's future, including migration and political shifts. What does this mean for Europe's stability and its relationship with the US? Below, we explore the key concerns and implications of this bold warning.
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Why Is the US Warning Europe About 'Civilizational Erasure'?
The recent US National Security Strategy has raised alarms by warning Europe about 'civilizational erasure.' This provocative language signals a shift in US foreign policy priorities and raises questions about Europe's future amid migration and political changes. What exactly is the US warning about, and what does it mean for Europe's stability and alliances? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this controversial strategy and its implications.
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